News

The 10% That Really Matters

If you interact with other humans in any part of your life, there will be conflict at some point. In design and construction, you have a new team on every project. That means new personalities, new dynamics, new saboteurs and lots of potential conflicts. That sounds challenging because it is! However, there’s a simple shift in perspective that can make things a lot smoother. Conflict is inevitable AND difficult for most of us. Sounds like a recipe for pain…or growth. “Attachment to views, attachment to

Avalanche Alert: Top 10 California Employment Bills to Watch as Legislative Session Wraps Up

California employers will want to sit down, grab a cup of coffee, and prepare themselves for the avalanche on new employment laws that may soon be coming their way. The state Legislature just completed its work for 2023 in a frenzy of last-minute activity and deal-cutting, wrapping up a session for the record books. State lawmakers considered over 2,700 bills – the most in almost two decades – including some high-profile workplace-related proposals. Governor Newsom now has until October 14 to sign or veto

PG&E Wildfire Safety Tips September 2023

&##128293; Don't wait to evacuate when a wildfire strikes. Safeguard yourself and your family with a well-prepared 5-minute plan that outlines evacuation routes from your home, alternative meeting spots if you can't return home, and an emergency supply kit with essentials. Discover more life-saving safety tips at firefightersonyourside.org. #WildfireSafety #DisasterPrep #CBODirect #EvacuateEarly

Marin Builders Member, Sandra Bird IN THE NEWS!

Legendary Marin Kitchen Designer Sandra Bird Talks Interior Design, Women in the Industry and Design History by LOTUS ABRAMS Published by SPACES Magazine September 7, 2023 Sought-after Kentfield interior designer Sandra Bird has been bringing homeowners dream kitchens — and more — to life for over four decades. During that time, kitchen design has changed a lot, reflecting peoples’ evolving lifestyles and preferences, as well as the introduction of innovations intended to elevate home cooking and

Honig Vineyard and Winery in Napa Valley Boosts Sustainable Viticulture with SolarCraft Solar Panel Installation

SolarCraft, serving Marin, Sonoma and Napa counties, recently completed the installation of 184.4 kW DC solar electric power system at Honig Vineyard and Winery in Rutherford, Napa Valley. Honig will cut their electricity costs for many decades and reduce their dependency on increasingly volatile utility energy sources. Significantly reducing their carbon footprint will yield benefits for both their neighboring communities and their financial performance.  The new solar panel system, designed and installed

Safety & Training Short: Slips, Trips & Falls - Inspection

Slips, trips and falls constitute the majority of general industry accidents.  According to OSHA, they cause 15% of all deaths, and are second only to motor vehicles as a cause of fatalities. Slips, trips and fall hazards also need to be controlled for visitors.   Falls can result in substantial worker compensation and general liability claims. Following established health and safety rules not only ensures safe conditions, it creates a safety-conscious culture and shields your organization from possible

County Appoints Permit Ombudsperson

San Rafael, CA – A major customer service improvement has debuted at the County of Marin with the appointment of a dedicated specialist poised to assist those seeking a building permit from the Community Development Agency(CDA). The newly established position will play a pivotal role in improving internal processes, addressing concerns, and providing guidance to ensure compliance with regulations. Cristy Stanley, a longtime supervisor in CDA’s Code Compliance Division, was appointed to the position and

Wildfire Safety Tips September 2023

&##128293; Don't wait to evacuate when a wildfire strikes. Safeguard yourself and your family with a well-prepared 5-minute plan that outlines evacuation routes from your home, alternative meeting spots if you can't return home, and an emergency supply kit with essentials. Discover more life-saving safety tips at firefightersonyourside.org. #WildfireSafety #DisasterPrep #CBODirect #EvacuateEarly

Celebrating our Member Referral Partners - Thank You for Helping Us Build Our Community!

We would like to recognize and celebrate our wonderful REFERRAL PARTNERS!2023:Katherine Moodie, Cook Construction, who referred Da Vinci MarbleKimberly Rider, Kimberly Rider Interiors, who referred Vincent Espinzoa, V Studio, Inc.Roxanne Albin, Applied Financial Services, who referred Darren Valenzano, Valenzano ConstructionRenee Norman, Golden State Lumber, Inc. who referred, Tom Graves, Graves Construction, Inc.  (Special thanks to Renee for pledging her bonus to our Scholarship and Workforce Training

l'ARCA International Design Magazine Features Robert Nebolon Architects

On Newsstands Now:  The September 2023 issue of l'ARCA International, one of Italy's and Europe's leading art and architecture magazines, features Robert Nebolon Architects (RNA), San Francisco, CA --one of California/USA's top architecture firms.  Luigi Prestinenza Puglisi, Italy's renowned Architecture Critic, and Giulia Mura, Editor and Writer, explore the work of RNA. RNA is a small boutique design firm that enjoys small-to-medium projects with a high level of design quality.  Featured projects: The

Safety & Training Short- Lead Awareness: Engineering Controls

Objective: To introduce common engineering controls for lead exposure, including methods of substitution, isolation, and ventilation. Because lead exposure is dangerous, employers must implement engineering controls to minimize employee exposure to the greatest extent possible. Engineering controls are greatly preferred over administrative controls as the best way to control exposures. Personal protective equipment (e.g., a respirator) is considered a last resort, as the worker must wear it properly. Know

Luau on the Links Golf Classic Shines

The links were filled with Marin Builders Association golfers at the 2023 Marin Builders 47th Annual Golf Classic - Luau on the Links! This perennially sold out event, held on August 28th at the beautiful StoneTree Golf Club in Novato, hosted over 150 guests including players, volunteers, and sponsors.  Perfect Northern California weather encouraged everyone to enjoy a day of golf, sportsmanship, new connections, and delicious food & refreshments.  A portion of the event proceeds benefit the Marin

New DOL Final Rule Regarding the Davis Bacon and Related Acts Will Have Significant Impacts on Contractors

Reprinted from August 14, 2023 newsletter The Department of Labor (“DOL”) announced its long-awaited final rule updating the Davis Bacon and Related Acts. Scheduled for publication on August 23, 2023, the new rule will have significant impacts on many industries and businesses, particularly contractors and subcontractors who perform work on federal and federally assisted construction contracts of $2,000 or more.   The changes to the rule will annually affect an estimated $217 billion in federal and

Renowned Architect Robert Nebolon's Masterpieces Grace the Pages of Peninsula Magazine

Renowned Architect Robert Nebolon's Masterpieces Grace the Pages of Peninsula Magazine Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA – (August 29 2023) Peninsula Magazine editorial staff is thrilled to announce that  Robert Nebolon, nationally known award-winning Architect, will be featured in the August issue of Peninsula Magazine, the premier regional publication for the Palos Verdes Peninsula communities.  A true hometown success story, Robert Nebolon grew up in Rolling Hills on the picturesque Palos Verdes Peninsula,

September 2023 Top Health New from Alliant Insurance Services

Amp Up Your Walk 5 WaysWalking is a great form of exercise, especially if you enjoy moving in comfort. It’s widely accessible and easy for most. As you adjust to walking for fitness, here are some ways to step up the intensity, benefits and pleasure of your walking workouts.1. Add speed. Here’s how: Take your normal-sized steps or slightly smaller steps and focus on a quicker  movement. Keep your shoulders relaxed as you pump your arms close to your body for additional momentum and balance.2. Add incline.

Small Business Development Center September Webinars

Your Imposter is Picking Your Pocket

Do any of these ring true? +You don’t bill all of your time (or worse, maybe you don’t even track it). +You consistently send invoices late. +You haven’t raised your rates lately (or ever). If so, your Imposter (aka The Judge) is at work. Your Judge wants to keep you small and scared to “protect” you in some warped way. It lies to you—listen to me and you’ll be successful; without me pushing you, you’ll get lazy; nothing will improve unless I constantly point out what’s wrong. And berates you—you don’t

The Latest on Electrification in Marin

Marin Remodelers Forum Delivers Resources on Electrification to Members and Community The Marin Builders Association Remodelers Forum and PG&E hosted a virtual Lunch and Learn to educate and provide local resources for electrification in Marin.Watch video of Lunch and Learn EventPresenter Slides Contact Ashley Murphree if you would like to get in touch with either of the presenters.RELATED:PG&E Energy Incentive Programs Reward Customers for Reducing Energy Use and Strain On Electric Grid2023-2024 Marin

D+H Construction IN THE NEWS

'Life-changing': This empty Bay Area office building will soon be turned into supportive housing By Cornell Barnard KGO logo Friday, June 16, 2023 SAN RAFAEL, Calif. (KGO) -- In the North Bay, construction is happening to convert an empty office building into a supportive housing complex for those formerly unhoused. It's a place where meetings were once held and papers were shuffled, now an abandoned office building in San Rafael is getting a new life. "It was basically empty and wasn't being used

Safety & Training Short: Heat Stress Prevention - Heat Illness

Objective: To reinforce awareness of dangerous heat illnesses, including symptoms, treatment procedures, and safety precautions. When the body is unable to cool off by sweating, heat-induced illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke can occur. These illnesses are very serious, and can sometimes result in death. High temperatures, humidity, direct sun or heat, limited air movement, physical exertion, poor physical condition, some medications, and inadequate tolerance for hot workplaces or areas can

Safety & Training Short: Construction Standards - Most Violated

Job Hazard Analysis (JHA):  Thorough hazard assessments for your worksites are critical to assure continued protection of staff.  Learn what the most violated construction standards are, so you can create a plan to avoid unnecessary losses. Click here to download the complete training short in EnglishClick here to download the complete training short in Spanish   Safety & Training Shorts provided by George Petersen Insurance Agency, the proud broker of the Marin Builders Association Workers' Comp

Safety & Training Short - Musculoskeletal Disorders: Safe Lifting

Before you lift something, ask yourself these questions: How heavy is the load?Will it be awkward to control?Should I ask for help?Can it be moved mechanically with available equipment?Is it in an accessible position?Does it have sharp edges?Will it be slippery or awkward to lift?Do I need gloves or other protection?Click here to download the complete training short in EnglishClick here to download the complete training short in Spanish Safety & Training Shorts provided by George Petersen Insurance Agency,

Safety & Training Short: Active Shooter - Organizational Preparedness

Objective: To assure that your organization is prepared for an active shooter incident and is taking proactive steps to minimize the chances or effectiveness of a shooter on the premises. No workplace is immune to the risks of an active shooter incident. However, there are steps that you can take to assure that your organization is prepared for the worst. Emergency Action PlanTraining ExercisesPreventative MeasuresWarning SignsClick here to download the complete training short in EnglishClick here to

Marin Green Home Tour - Represent Your Project!! Come Be A Part!!

The Marin Green Home Touris looking for local homes to feature in our 2nd annual virtual tour in October 2023. We are seeking variety of homes that reflect the economic, geographic, and racial diversity of the community and plan to include various home types, including single-family, condos, apartments, cottages/ADU’s, etc. The tour highlights energy efficiency, electrification, renewable energy, green building practices, sustainable design, and a mix of high-tech and DIY solutions that reduce your

Building Self-Esteem by Showing Up for Yourself

Like so many things, we tend to think confidence and esteem will come from “out there.” When I achieve the next level/goal/position. When I get the affirmation or accolades. When I finally get paid $X.   Or if we just think hard enough about it, it will be so. Oh, no.   I was inspired by a recent episode of Queer Eye when JVN told the makeover subject that we gain confidence by setting goals and then showing up for ourselves. Word, JVN!   We can’t think or wish ourselves into more confidence. It takes

NORTH BAY TIP: An Apprenticeship Readiness Program

Marin Economic Forum: Did You Know? By some measures economic recovery has occurred in Marin

Copyright © 2023 MarinEconomicForum, All rights reserved. Based on data presented by the County of Marin in March budget hearings, sales taxes for the county unincorporated and all of Marin’s jurisdictions, surpassed pre-pandemic levels by more than 10% in 2022, reaching $65 million versus $57 million in 2019. That follows sales tax revenues of $64 million in 2021. At the onset of the pandemic in 2020, sales taxes for the year amounted to just $52 million. From the perspective of consumption of local

Decisions, Decisions...Intuition vs Analysis

Decisions, Decisions…   According to researchers at Cornell University we make 226.7 decisions a day just on food alone. Imagine the number of decisions for entrepreneurs and business owners! And then layer on the complexities of a design or construction project. Yikes.   Decision fatigue is real. Part of that could be trying to use your analytical mind to solve problems that actually require intuition instead.   The analytical mind is a useful tool. It is great for solving linear problems such as A

Safety & Training Short - Visitor Safety

Objective: To create awareness of safe practices that protect visitors from worksite hazards. Visitors are any non-employees at the facility, including contractors, vendors, family members of employees, and facility inspectors. Because visitors may be unaware of the hazards and required processes specific to your organization, they may inadvertently endanger themselves or others through improper practices. The potential outcomes include injury, property damage, significant business interruption, and the

Laying the Foundation: How to Build a Winning Construction Team

The Building Code A podcast by BuildertrendAvailable to View on YouTube On this episode of “The Building Code,” Zach and Charley are discussing how to find and hire top talent with Paul Sanneman, founder and president, and Ed Earl, chief operating officer, of Contractor Staffing Source. Paul and Ed are passionate about helping residential contractors find talented staff to grow their construction company. Their extensive knowledge and expertise have contributed to their company’s success as a leading

Safety & Training Short: Evacuation Drills

In an emergency situation, evacuating employees out of a building poses unique challenges.  Appropriate exits, emergency lighting, communication systems, alarms and sprinkler systems are critical for employee safety. Emergency routes need to be developed, posted, and properly maintained to ensure easy accessibly in an emergency situation.  Drills are a critical component of all emergency actions plans to ensure that emergency procedures are understood and followed by all occupants.Click here to download

Safety & Training Short: PPE - Foot Protection

Objective: To familiarize employees with common types of foot protection Keeping your feet safe on the job means protecting them from a spectrum of potential hazards, including skin infections, crushing injuries, exposure to electricity, chemicals, extreme temperatures, or sharps, and other common worksite hazards. Before beginning work, conduct a job hazard analysis to determine the need of foot protection to prevent injury.Click here to download the complete training short in EnglishClick here to

The Joy of Service? It's More Than You Think

Many of us in a service business, or any business, put all of our focus on the client or customer. We twist ourselves in knots to please them. We accept unacceptable behavior. We sacrifice our own self-care and boundaries. That’s our saboteurs in action. Your Sage knows the true joy of service is as much about you as it is about serving others. Think about why you got into design or architecture or however you serve your clients. You have passion and talent and want to share it with the world! You have a

Your Secret Super Power

"The Superpower is Relaxation” - Julie Piatt Bam! This truth bomb, dropped by Julie Piatt (aka Sri Mu) on my favorite pod (Rich Roll), made me smile from ear to ear. In a world where hustle, grind, one-upmanship and even burnout are lauded, this can be a tough one for most of us to swallow. What if the inverse of everything you’ve been rewarded for is actually the seat of your power? There is a 1 in 400 trillion chance that you are alive in human form at this moment. [pause for impact] You, in all your

Creativity Love Potion

Love = Creativity = Love Apologies to my 9th grade algebra teacher, Mrs. Greenburg, for the wonky formula, but it’s true and I’m going to prove it. Think about a time when you were at your most creative. Ideas were flowing. Shapes, colors and textures emerged intuitively, without thinking. Time stood still. Or flew by. Now think about how you were feeling at that moment. Were you angry?Stressed?Disappointed?Feeling guilty?Judging yourself or another? I highly doubt it. More likely, you felt expansive,

2023 California Contractors License Law & Reference Book Now Available

Purchase your copy or view or download a free PDF Sacramento, CA – The 2023 edition of the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) California Contractors License Law & Reference Book (Law Book) is now available. The Law Book can be purchased directly from the publisher, or the online PDF version can be viewed or downloaded at no cost on the CSLB website. The Law Book features a summary of new contracting lawsthat became effective on January 1, 2023 The all-inclusive book details CSLB’s history and mission

New Virtual Assistant Service Offers Support to Construction, Landscaping and Real Estate Businesses

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Jan 30, 2023 New Virtual Assistant Service Offers Support to Construction, Landscaping and Real Estate Businesses   [Marin County, CA] - LPSS is excited to announce the launch of our new virtual assistant service, Ogmentor, for construction, landscaping and real estate businesses. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing top-notch support to businesses in these industries, helping them save time and money while increasing efficiency and productivity.   Our

Can You Take a Vacation?

Time Out for Time Off  At a recent dinner with colleagues, one asked, “Who here can really take a vacation?” One brave soul offered that she was done with bringing drawings on the beach with her. The others didn’t answer. What’s your answer? Society and your Saboteurs perpetuate the big lie that vacation is indulgent, selfish or even dangerous. The competition will surpass you. You’ll lose that project. It will look bad to [fill in the blank]. Your world can’t possibly keep spinning if you take time

Liens & Completions 2022-2023

Click the links below to view a current list of Liens & Completions published and provided by the County of Marin. If what you're looking for is not listed below, please don't hesitate to call our offices directly at 415.462.1220 or contact Paula Krause

2023 Marin County & City Building Permits

Click the links below to view a current list of permit reports published and provided by the County of Marin and the individual cities/towns including Corte Madera, Larkspur, Mill Valley, Novato, Ross, San Anselmo, San Rafael, Sausalito and Tiburon. If what you're looking for is not listed below, please don't hesitate to call our offices directly at 415.462.1220 or contact Gabriela Shea at mba@marinbuilders.com. Important Note: This list is updated monthly with the most current information we receive from

North Bay Construction Corps - Marin Class

North Bay Construction Corps - Class of Marin addresses the high demand for construction workers in our community. This program enables students to explore a variety of construction related careers and prepares young adults for internship positions with local Marin Builders Association firms at the end of each class cycle.  Made possible by the Mario Ghilotti Family Foundation, the Sausalito, and Mission San Rafael Rotary Clubs, the program helps students: Build Work-Ready SkillsAcquire Basic Tool Safety

Contractors with No Employees Face New Workers' Compensation Requirement

A new law will require almost all contractors in California to carry workers’ compensation coverage, regardless of if they have employees or not. According to the author of the bill, State Senator Bill Dodd (D-Napa) the new law was necessary due to the tendency of many small contractors to claim they have no employees, when in fact they regularly hire day laborers or undocumented workers. Since a firm with only an owner and no employees is not required to carry workers’ comp coverage, those workers would

Office Space Available at Marin Builders Association

Office or Medical Space for LeaseSuite 670=/- 760 RSF Office or Medical SuiteMost recently used as a dental office3 offices with windowsPrivate entrance, signage availableAlarm System2 restrooms3.00/ RSF per month GrossProperty Highlights2 Large conference rooms with A/VOn-site parkingConvenient North San Rafael location next to Northgate Shopping CenterMarin Builders Association propertyStreet Facing SignageView Flyer Here  

Medicare Solutions Brought to you by Alliant

Free Member Resource for Navigating the Medicare Maze Most people become eligible for Medicare at age 65. Medicare is the government run health insurance for people age 65 and older, younger people with disabilities, and people with End Stage Renal Disease. Medicare can look like a complicated maze of choices, between Medicare Parts A–D, Medicare Advantage plans, and Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policies. That’s why we are introducing a resource to help you understand the different parts of Medicare, what

2022 Marin County & City Building Permits

Click the links below to view a current list of permit reports published and provided by the County of Marin and the individual cities/towns including Corte Madera, Larkspur, Mill Valley, Novato, San Anselmo, San Rafael, Sausalito and Tiburon. If what you're looking for is not listed below, please don't hesitate to call our offices directly at 415.462.1220 or contact Gabriela Shea at mba@marinbuilders.com. Important Note: This list is updated monthly with the most current information we receive from each

Lien Protection Checklist - SUBCONTRACTOR

Click here for Subcontractor Lien Protection Checklist to protect your Lien rights provided by the Marin Builders Association and Dan McLennon of Smith, Currie & Hancock, LLP.Reviewed and Updated February 2023

Lien Protection Checklist - GENERAL CONTRACTOR

Click here for General Contractors Lien Rights Protection Checklist to protect your Lien rights provided by the Marin Builders  Association and Board member Dan McLennon.Reviewed and Updated February 2023